An Intimate Bushveld Wedding At Rhulani Safari Lodge
Bushveld Wedding
Imagine exchanging vows amidst the serene beauty of the African savannah, where the sounds of nature replace the hum of a traditional wedding setting. For Caroline, this intimate bushveld elopement was more than just a ceremony – it was a celebration of her new life with her loved ones. Ditching the formalities and high heels for a pair of practical vellies and a rustic hat, she opted for an unconventional yet deeply personal union that reflected their values as a growing family.
The Proposal As Told By The Bride
As I reflect on Michael’s proposal in 2019, surrounded by the serene beauty of Austria’s snow-covered landscape, it was a moment that truly exceeded all expectations. Yet, I was surprised to discover that our love story didn’t stop there! As a travel-obsessed couple (@livingbreathlessly), we’ve made it our mission to explore and immerse ourselves in South Africa’s breathtaking natural landscapes and wildlife reserves.
This passion not only fuels Michael’s creative pursuits as a Wildlife Photographer but also serves as a constant reminder of the magic that brought us together.
The Wedding Venue
In April 2022, we exchanged vows at Rhulani Safari Lodge within the picturesque Madikwe Game Reserve. Accompanied by our two sons, Mason and Owen, the celebration was filled with laughter and joy. Our guide for the weekend, Alasdair, brought an extra layer of humor to the experience, while our talented photographer, Andrew Morgan, skillfully captured every cherished moment.
Intimate Wedding Ceremony
The experience of watching our sons bring the ceremony to life was nothing short of breathtaking. It was as if they distilled perfection and love into every moment, making our special day truly unforgettable. I was blown away by just how effortlessly they executed the ceremony, transforming it into a fairytale-like wedding that exceeded all my expectations.
Bridal Couple Shoot
As we exchanged our vows, the serene surroundings of nature played host to our intimate celebration. The majestic Jackalberry tree stood tall beside us, its branches swaying gently in the breeze. In the distance, elephants and zebras roamed freely, their presence adding a touch of wild wonder to our special moment.
Just as we sealed our love with a romantic kiss, the heavens above responded with a delicate sprinkle of rain, followed by a stunning rainbow that stretched across the sky – a breathtaking backdrop for the start of our new life together.
Time for some Bubbly
As the celebratory atmosphere reached its peak, we toasted with a glass of bubbly champagne and savored the sweetness of freshly baked donuts. The picturesque sunset served as the perfect backdrop for capturing cherished memories, which we immortalized through a series of stunning photographs. Meanwhile, two inquisitive rhinos lingered nearby, their curious gazes drawn to my white dress as they cautiously approached, adding an unexpected yet fascinating dimension to our commemorative moment.
Intimate Family Wedding Reception
As we reflect on the day, it’s hard to put into words just how unforgettable and enchanting the experience was. The organic nature of the proceedings, combined with the untouched beauty and soundscape of our surroundings, made for a truly unique and intimate atmosphere. For many, Africa is a bucket-list destination they hope to visit once in their lifetime – we feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to call it home for a brief moment.
